Friday, November 06, 2015

We all know that sometimes love hits us at the most unexpected times. Whether you are falling in love with a new dessert, a new cashmere sweater or the kid who sat beside of you in English; you know that love can create havoc and lead to irrational decision-making. The same type of experience can take place when you purchase a home. That is why it is so important to have a trusted advisor at your side, so that the dreamy feelings of love don't interfere with the rational process of making a solid investment.

There are many reasons to love a home. The location that tucks you back in the privacy of the wooded cul de sac lot among the autumn leaves or even the slight smell of the wood burning fireplace that reminds you of your childhood. You can love the thought of cooking in the kitchen and seeing the kids nestled up the bar doing their homework while you cook dinner or you can love that your beloved puppy will finally have a place of his own. Those feelings and notions can overshadow your ability to look rationally at a variety of factors, such as price per square foot of surrounding similar homes or the fact that there is a major roadway being built close by.

It takes an experienced Realtor, familiar with the area you are looking in to make sure that your decision to fall in "love" is tempered with facts and outside resources to consider. You may decide that much like that first high school crush, you don't want to be committed to listening to the band practice every night. These things are important for your long term satisfaction with the home and with the potential for resale. Talk to a local, seasoned Realtor who is not intimidated to be direct with you and give you the tools you need to not only "fall" in love but to "stay" in love.

Monday, May 04, 2015

No excuses. It's been a while since I've posted. Almost a year to be exact. Like anything else, when time is limited you prioritize. The market has turned and activity has increased tri-fold and that in itself took me away from something that I enjoyed regularly, which was communicating ideas and notions regarding our local real estate market with YOU! So, I'm back!

Just a quick update as to where we stand currently. Market inventory is still limited. I mean the good stuff. Homes that are priced appropriately and in good condition. I have buyers that can't find what they want and when they do, we are in multiple offer situations. That means for all of you sellers who are waiting for the right time to sell, that time is NOW. Rates are great, inventory is limited and buyers are out there for the first time in a long time.

So what have I been up to? Well, the short story is listing homes. Our team focus is traditionally on listing homes. Making sure that the homes we are showcasing are priced and positioned appropriately, marketed in the proper channels and that our clients are enjoying an experience that takes them from contract to closing in an efficient and professional manner. With our range of systems and check-lists in place we believe we are better positioned than any other agent in the area.

We are also working with some awesome buyers! Matching them to homes and going after homes in communities that may not even be on the market yet. Networking with the real estate community to fit buyers and sellers together and bring them to the neighborhood of their dreams. Most of the buyers are referrals from past clients and associates across the state and we are so pleased to continue to assist them!

Marketing-wise, I am currently working to update the website to better reflect our community, our services and the experience we bring to the table for each of our clients. Also, be on the lookout for a video and testimonials that give you a first-hand look at who we are and what we do best.

So it goes without saying, it's been a busy time for us, but I am going to work hard to continue to post on a weekly basis continuing to give you information on our community, real estate and what it means to work with Brooke Cashion and Associates-Allen Tate Realtors.